College golf has experienced a level of competitiveness recently that was not present just a few years ago. Each year, more schools are putting forth the resources necessary to compete on a national level. The most expensive and difficult resource for any college program to attain is an exclusive practice facility for the members of the team.

Through the dedication and enthusiastic support of the University and its donors, Oklahoma golf has remained on the forefront of this trend, as the Charlie Coe Center certainly fills this need.

The Coe Center has gained a reputation as the model facility for college golf. Each year since its opening, other major Division I universities have inquired about copying the facility. Many have traveled to Norman for a first-hand look.

The center, funded by private donations, is located at the south end of the driving range at the Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club, which underwent a $5 million facelift in 1997.

The 7,000-square foot, indoor-outdoor facility allows golfers a place to practice every day. There are three hitting bays that the players can use to practice with or without video. The video system includes the most up-to-date equipment on the market. The video cameras are integrated into a computer system that provides consistent clear images and feedback.

The building houses locker rooms and offices for both the men's and women's teams, as well as numerous items documenting the history of golf at the University of Oklahoma.

The center also includes and expansive outdoor practice area. Designed exclusively for the OU golf teams, this part of the complex is 225 yards wide and 90 yards deep. Opened in September of 1996, both the men's and women's golf teams have been training here with very positive results.

The south end complex has two satellite chipping greens, as well as a 12,000-square foot bent grass chipping area with seven bunkers to cover a myriad of sand and stance possibilities. There is also a bent grass and Bermuda grass putting green.

The practice complex was developed by Tripp Davis, a former Sooner All-American and member of the 1989 national champion OU golf team, in conjunction with Bob Cupp and Gregg Grost.

The coaching staff and golf course superintendent have worked with Davis each season to make improvements to the Coe Center. Scheduled improvements include many interior updates that will continue the Coe Center's reputation as one of the best practice facilities in the country.

About Charlie Coe

Coe attended OU from 1946-48 and became one of the most celebrated amateur golfers in the game's history. A two-time U.S. Amateur winner, Coe never turned pro, instead choosing to spend time with his wife and family. He made 19 Masters appearances and owns almost every Masters amateur record, including top-25 finishes (9), top-10 finishes (3), eagles (6), rounds played (67) and most times low amateur (6). Read More

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